1/48 Focke-Wulf Fw190 D-9 JV44 Tamiya 61081 – At the final stages of World War II, the Messerschmitt Me262 jet fighter became the main fighter of the German Luftwaffe. Since the Me262 lacked acceleration at low speeds, it was particularly vulnerable at take off. Hence the formation of the Jagdverband 44 special operations air unit, consisting of Focke-Wulf 190 D-9’s that flew cover for Me262’s. The D-9’s, with their incredible acceleration and climbing ability, proved to be more than a match for the powerful P-51’s they opposed. Due to the devoted pilots who tenaciously protected the Me262, the JV44, though formed during the final stages of the war, managed to amass an uncanny flight record in just a short period of time.